Tasted blind at Farr Vintners Kumeu/White Burgundy tasting. The 2009 Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay from Kumeu River has a well-defined and detailed bouquet with yellow flowers infusing the bright citrus fruit, all with fine mineralité. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with good acidity, pithy and slightly waxy in texture with a complex finish that still has a touch of oak to be absorbed. Still, this is an excellent wine with the substance to suggest that long-term aging is advisable. - Neal Martin

Aromatic soft and supple with honey butterscotch and toasted brioche notes that are as intense as they appear effortless. This delivers plenty of lemon and pear flavors with a long finish. Drink now through 2016. 1000 cases made. --MaryAnn Worobiec